1.  Uses of fund.  The commissioner shall use the fund for research directly related to scallop fishery management information needs, for implementation of scallop management measures, for reporting to licensed scallop harvesters on the results of research and the use of fund revenues and for the administration of an apprentice program established pursuant to section 6702, subsection 7. The commissioner may authorize the expenditure of money in the fund for research and development programs that address the restoration, development or conservation of scallop resources. The commissioner shall consult with the Scallop Advisory Council under section 6729-B before deciding upon research projects and awarding grants from the fund. The fund may also be used for support of the Scallop Advisory Council, including reimbursement for travel expenses.  

2.  Sources of revenue.  The fund is capitalized by license fees and surcharges assessed under section 6702, subsection 7 and section 6729. In addition to those revenues, the commissioner may accept and deposit in the fund money from any other source, public or private.  

3.  Scallop Advisory Council.  The commissioner shall consult with the Scallop Advisory Council under section 6729-B on the expenditure of funds under this section.